Argo on the Parade - 2013
When it comes to lunching in the burbs, Argo on the Parade sets the standard exceedingly high. Located in the oh-so-chic Eastern suburbs, this incredibly versatile cafe offers something for everyone - including some of the best salads in Adelaide (you CAN make friends with salad!!).
Arriving for lunch on a gorgeous Saturday afternoon, the cafe is overflowing with ravenous patrons. Securing a table within ten minutes the staff member was extremely hospitable, considering she was clearly under the pump.
The Argo Special is without a doubt one of the best salads I’ve had in Adelaide. Succulent pieces of marinated lamb on a bed of fresh vegetables bathed in mouthwatering tzatziki - if you saw me eating this, you would truly understand why I’m The Smiling Foodie! Every bite provides so much elation - amazingly crisp texture combined with the oh so sublime flavors emanating from the lamb + tzatziki combination.
Be warned - the serving size is enormous, even as a 187cm grown man, I was struggling to finish.
As a food blogger who enjoys keeping himself fit and healthy, its fantastic to see cafe’s taking on new methods of healthy food and drink options. Argo, has some of the best beverage options in Adelaide. As soon as I saw the “Green is the new black” juice section on the menu, my eyes lit up - featuring super-foods such as spirulina, maca powder and chia seeds, its a easy and delicious way to boost one’s antioxidant levels.
I settled for “The Veganaut” - Apple, goji berries, strawberries, spinach and macca powder blended into this rather revolting looking drink - but damn, the taste was divine. The sweetness of the fruit combined with the savouriness of the spinach and maca powder, this juice truly personified happiness with every mouthful.
My dear friend Kat, ordered the “Off The Wall” burger - Marinated chicken breast, guacamole, goats cheese, caramelized onion with tomato and rocket. Boy oh boy, would you look at this thing!! The burger was a mess, but apparently tasted quite delish.
The staff are extremely customer focused, and friendly most of the time, however due to the sheer popularity on the day, the cafe wasn’t completely immune to rushed service. I’ve found, after countless visits over the years, the service is still of a quality that many cafe’s would be proud of - but no cafe, no matter how good they are, is resistant to an occasional hiccup. Definitely won’t stop me returning though!
Featuring a bold menu, prime location, with alluring food and beverages options, Argo is a (not so hidden) Eastern suburbs treasure. I’ve yet to see the end of the rainbow, but I’ve found a pot of gold!
Until next time, happy eats :)
